Calling all August babies! We have everything you’d want to know about peridot and more. See the end of our blog post to see our favorite DH products in peridot.
Peridot is a gem-quality form of the mineral olivine, and it is iron that gives peridot its unique hues of yellow-green. Despite its striking color and appearance, it was often mistaken for emerald during medieval times. Due to this confusion, it was believed for centuries that the three magnificent 200-carat gemstones decorating the the shrine of the Three Holy Kings in Germany’s Cologne Cathedral were emeralds. Nope! They’re peridots. But the Germans weren’t the only ones duped into thinking peridot was emerald. Many scholars now believe that the “emeralds” featured in Cleopatra’s crown were actually peridot, not emerald.
Peridot has often been associated with light. It was called “evening emerald” by the Romans and “gem of the sun” by the Egyptians. Interestingly, peridot is unique in a number of ways. Firstly, it only comes in shades of green, making it the only gemstone to come in just one color. Additionally, it is one of the only two gemstones, including diamond, that are formed in the Earth’s mantle. Peridot is one of the few gemstones found in meteor deposits from several countries, indicating that it also exists in space.
Like many other gemstones, Peridot also has an interesting meaning in folklore and legend.According to Hawaiian legend, peridot is actually the tears of Pele, the volcanic goddess who created the islands. In ancient times, peridot was believed to be able to ward off evil spirits. It was even used medicinally for several decades, since it was thought to cure asthma and to lessen the thirst of those suffering fever.
Peridot has a rich history of brilliance dating back thousands of years, and we are proud to feature it in a few special pieces, seen below.
Pictured: Sterling SIlver Peridot Ring
Sterling Silver Ammonite & Peridot Cuff
Whether it’s your birthstone or you’re drawn to its dazzling color, our talented custom jewelers will help make your peridot custom jewelry dreams come true! Schedule a design consultation in Waco, Texas, by texting us at (254) 717-7431.